Driver hit pedestrian on Haddonfield Road as he walked across the street Monday evening
December 08, 2025 | Cherry Hill, NJ
A tragic pedestrian accident on Haddonfield Road claimed the life of 51-year-old Gerald S. Yashinsky Jr. on Dec. 8, according to the Cherry Hill Police Department.
Gerald Yashinsky Jr., 51, of Cherry Hill, died at the scene after northbound vehicle struck him while he crossed Haddonfield Road near Yale Avenue.
What Happened in the Crash?
At around 6:40 p.m., Yashinsky was crossing Haddonfield Road when a northbound vehicle struck him near Yale Avenue. Emergency responders arrived quickly but pronounced him deceased at the scene.
Key details of the incident include:
- Date and Time: Dec. 8, 2025, approximately 6:40 p.m.
- Location: Haddonfield Road near Yale Avenue, Cherry Hill, N.J.
- Victim: Gerald S. Yashinsky Jr., 51, local resident
- Vehicle Involved: Northbound vehicle
- Outcome: Fatality at the scene, and no other injuries reported
- Reporting Agency: Cherry Hill Police Department
Authorities are actively investigating and urge witnesses to call 856-432-8859 with any information.
Why Do Pedestrian Accidents Like This Occur?
Pedestrian fatalities remain a pressing concern nationwide. Driver negligence often plays a central role, from distractions like cell phones to failure to yield in crosswalks.
Common Causes of Pedestrian Accidents |
Source |
Statistics (National, 2023) |
|---|
Distracted Driving (e.g., phones) |
NHTSA |
8% of fatal crashes involve distraction |
Speeding |
CDC |
29% of pedestrian deaths tied to high speeds |
Failure to Yield |
Federal Highway Administration |
Over 50% of urban pedestrian incidents |
Impaired Driving |
NHTSA |
20% of nighttime pedestrian fatalities |
Data sourced from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
In New Jersey, pedestrian deaths rose sharply, with 221 fatalities in 2024—a 29% increase from the prior year, per state police data.
Legal Insights
Newsline consulted Andrew G. Finkelstein, managing partner at Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices, for a perspective on incidents involving pedestrians.
“In cases such as this, driver negligence is typically at fault for most pedestrian accidents. Distractions like cell phones, rushing, or lack of attention lead to devastating outcomes,” Finkelstein noted.
Key takeaways from the analysis:
- Thorough investigations are crucial to identify all involved parties and fault.
- Reconstructing the scene helps establish liability in motor vehicle crashes.
- Families may pursue claims for loss of companionship, pain, and emotional distress.
- Avoid direct statements to insurers, and professional representation protects rights.
“Insurance companies often shift blame to reduce payouts. Hiring an attorney experienced in these matters ensures victims' or families' voices are heard effectively,” Finkelstein added.
Next Steps for Families and Witnesses
Pending results, Yashinsky's family could explore wrongful death options. Newsline emphasizes the importance of legal support in navigating such tragedies.
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Newsline - is your trusted source for legal news and accident reports, delivering timely updates to keep you informed.
Newsline''s national legal analyst Andrew G. Finkelstein has extensive experience with fatal pedestrian accidents. If you or a loved one need support, he’s available for a free consultation to help guide you.
(Andrew G. Finkelstein, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices to help you, please call 855-976-8163 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).